Abstract: An electrode assembly for an electrosurgical instrument includes a housing configured to operably receive a distal end of an instrument shaft, the housing including a pair of opposing spring clips. An active electrode is included having a proximal end configured to engage the distal end of the shaft and includes a cutting edge defined about a periphery thereof. An insulator is included that encapsulates the active electrode while leaving the cutting edge exposed. A pair of return electrodes is included that is each configured to operably engage an exposed side of the insulator, each return electrode including a recess defined therein configured to removably receive a distal end of each respective spring clip such that, upon selective engagement of the active electrode with the distal end of the shaft, each spring clip removably snaps into each respective recess to removably lock the active and return electrodes to the housing.

Abstract: An instrument connector comprises a housing, a first connector, and a second connector. The housing includes a proximal face at a proximal end of the instrument connector, and the proximal face is coincident with a reference plane. The first connector extends proximally away from the proximal face and includes a rod and a first interface for a first transmission channel. The rod is configured to mate with a first socket of a console connector. The second connector is recessed within the housing, includes a second interface for a second transmission channel, and is configured to mate with a second socket of the console connector. The proximal end of the second connector is distal to the reference plane. The rod is configured to engage with the first socket to at least partially align the second connector with the second socket before the second connector engages with the second socket.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a handle assembly, an elongate member, and a motor assembly. The elongate member extends from the handle assembly and defines a longitudinal axis of the surgical instrument. The motor assembly is disposed within the handle assembly and is configured to rotate the elongate member about the longitudinal axis relative to that handle assembly in response to sensed movement of the handle assembly about the longitudinal axis.

Abstract: A method for treating spinal nerve compression includes sequential dilation to position an instrument cannula along a patient's spine. Instruments can be delivered through the instrument cannula to remove targeted tissue for a decompression procedure. One of the instruments can be a reamer instrument configured to abrade, cut, or otherwise affect tissue along the patient's spine.

Abstract: An electrosurgical instrument used in electrosurgery, and includes a handpiece to be gripped by a user and provided with an accommodation space therein; a cable coupled to a rear end of the handpiece so as to transmit electrical energy; a conductive electrode, at least a portion of which protrudes toward a front side of the handpiece and which is configured to move in a front-rear direction relative to the handpiece; and a connecting body provided in the accommodation space and including a conductor electrically connecting the cable and the conductive electrode to each other, and a film formed of a non-conductive material and bonded to opposite sides of the conductor so as to shield the conductor, wherein at least a portion of the connecting body is formed of a Flexible Printed Circuit Board (FPCB) and is formed in a spiral or helical shape such that the total length of the connecting body is variable in the front-rear direction.

Abstract: Described herein are devices and methods for creating a capsulorhexis. In some embodiments, the device includes a template with a tearing profile, which, when placed against the capsular bag, defines a perimeter of a capsulorhexis. In some embodiments, the device further includes rigid sections and bendable sections which are configured to transition the template between a first bent configuration for insertion through a corneal incision and a second unbent configuration for creation of the capsulorhexis. In some embodiments, the device further includes connecting elements which enter through the corneal incision and, when manipulated, transition the device between the first bent configuration and the second unbent configuration. In some embodiments, the connectors are configured to impart a downward force on the template and thus the capsular bag during the capsulorhexis creation.

Abstract: A jaw assembly that includes a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw includes a first outer jaw member having an effecting surface; a first inner jaw member having an effecting surface; and an element connecting the first outer jaw member and the first inner jaw member. The first inner jaw member is moveable relative to the first outer jaw member. The effecting surface of the first outer jaw member is proud of the effecting surface of the first inner jaw member in a direction of the second jaw.

Abstract: A method is provided, including inserting a catheter into a right atrium of a heart of the subject. A distal portion of the catheter is advanced toward a fossa ovalis of the heart. A flexible longitudinal member is deployed from the catheter, such that a deployed portion of the flexible longitudinal member is loop-shaped. The fossa ovalis is contacted with the deployed portion of the flexible longitudinal member. A needle is deployed from the catheter. A distal end of the needle is brought in contact with a site on a surface of an interatrial septum of the heart outside the fossa ovalis. A hole is formed through the interatrial septum at the site with the needle. The deployed portion of the flexible longitudinal member is withdrawn toward the catheter.

Abstract: Methods, systems and devices for treating a patient include providing a tissue treatment element constructed and arranged to deliver energy to tissue and treating tissue of the gastrointestinal tract by causing the tissue treatment element to deliver energy to an energy delivery zone. Treatment results in a reduction in the luminal surface area of at least a portion of the gastrointestinal tract. In particular embodiments, the methods, systems and devices are used to treat diabetes.

Abstract: A treatment system includes an energy source apparatus and a thermal treatment tool configured to receive electrical energy from the energy source apparatus. The thermal treatment tool includes a thermally conductive member having opposed respective treatment and installation surfaces. A board being disposed on the installation surface and having respective longitudinal and widthwise directions. The board includes an electrically conductive wire having a conductive portion and a heat generating portion for generating heat when supplied with electric energy. The board is folded back at a folded point and is disposed on the thermally conductive member such that the heat generating portion of the electrically conductive wire facing the installation surface.

Abstract: An end effector assembly configured for use with a surgical instrument or surgical system includes first and second jaw members each including an outer jaw housing, a tissue-treating plate, and a longitudinally-extending channel therethrough. At least one of the first or second jaw members is pivotable relative to the other between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position. A cutting mechanism is configured to cut tissue grasped between the jaw members. The cutting mechanism may include an activation member coupled to a knife and configured to advance the knife transversely between the jaw members, a heat-activated elongated sheet configured to un-roll to advance a cutting edge thereof transversely between the jaw members, or a clutch and spring mechanism configured to deploy a knife longitudinally between the jaw members.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a hollow cable for transmitting radiofrequency and/or microwave frequency energy to an electrosurgical instrument, wherein the hollow cable is provided with electrical connectors for forming a bipolar electrical connection with an electrosurgical instrument that fits within, e.g. slides relative to, the hollow cable. The connectors can be conductive protrusions extending in an axial direction on opposite sides of the cable. The protrusions can be tabs, fins, rods, pins, or wires. The protrusions can be strips which engage corresponding terminals on the instrument. The transmission line structure of the invention can have a greater diameter than conventional coaxial cables, which can minimize loss whilst still providing access for control wires and/or fluid to reach a surgical instrument. The cable can be used with multiple instruments.

Abstract: Systems for nerve and tissue modulation are disclosed. An illustrative system may include an intravascular nerve modulation system including a catheter shaft, an expandable basket and one or more electrode assemblies affixed to the expandable basket. The one or more electrode assemblies may be affixed to the expandable basket using one or more covers or coatings.

Abstract: A sealing and/or cutting instrument having a thermally active surface or element which may be used to seal and then cut tissue, ducts, vessels, etc., apart. The instrument may include a thermally active surface or element comprised of a conductor covered with a ferromagnetic material. The instrument may contact tissue with one or more surfaces comprised of a non-stick material. A sensor in communication with the instrument may be used to monitor a therapeutic procedure and signal when sealing and/or cutting of a tissue is complete.

Abstract: Various exemplary methods, systems, and devices for controlling movement of a robotic surgical system are provided. In general, a plurality of surgical instruments can be simultaneously in use during performance of a surgical procedure. One or more of the plurality of instruments can be coupled to a robotic surgical system, which can be configured to control movement of the one or more of the plurality of instruments.

Abstract: Electrosurgery blades including electrosurgery blade assemblies having argon beam capability. The electrosurgery blade includes a thin conductive member having a lead sharp cutting end and an opposite noon-cutting end and a non-conductive coating covering the thin conductive member such that at least a portion of the lead cutting end and at least a portion of the opposite non-cutting end of the thin conductive member remain exposed. An electrosurgery blade assembly having argon beam capability includes the previously described electrosurgery blade, a non-conductive tube member having a hollow tubular shaped opening positioned on top of the electrosurgery blade, and a conductive hollow tubular member contained within at least a portion of the non-conductive tube member.

Abstract: A colpotomy system includes an energy source and a uterine manipulator that is electrically coupled to the energy source. The uterine manipulator supports a colpotomy cup and extends to a conductive distal tip portion. The colpotomy cup includes a conductive surface. One or both of the conductive distal tip portion and the conductive surface of the colpotomy cup are configured to return monopolar energy to the energy source.

Abstract: A surgical instrument (100) includes first and second shaft members (110, 120) defining proximal and distal end portions (112a, 122a, 112b, 122b) and including handles (114, 124) at the proximal end portions (112a, 122a) thereof. A pivot member (130) couples the distal end portions (112b, 122b) with a gap (G) defined therebetween proximally of the pivot member (130). First and second jaw members (210, 220) extend distally from the shaft members (110,120), distally of the pivot member (130). A lockout bar (160, 560, 660, 760) is movable between an unlocked position, withdrawn from the gap (G), and a locked position, disposed within the gap (G). The handles (114, 124) are pivotable between spaced-apart and approximated positions to pivot the jaw members (210, 220) between open and closed positions. The handles (114, 124) are yawable between the approximated position and a yawed position to yaw the jaw members (210, 220) between the closed position and a cutting position.

Abstract: An electrosurgical system is provided and includes a bipolar electrosurgical instrument and an electrosurgical generator. The bipolar electrosurgical instrument is arranged to seal and cut tissue captured between jaws of the instrument. The jaws include particularly positioned, shaped and/or oriented electrodes to perform the sealing of tissue. The electrosurgical generator is arranged to supply RF energy through the instrument, monitor the supplied RF energy and adjust or terminate the supplied RF energy to optimally seal the tissue.

Abstract: Shapeable guide catheters and methods for manufacturing and using such shapeable guide catheters. In one embodiment, the shapeable guide catheter comprises a tubular member having a shapeable region, a malleable shaping member attached to the shapeable region such that, when the shape of the shapeable region is changed from a first shape to a second shape, the shaping member will plastically deform to thereafter substantially hold the shapeable region in the second shape, a tubular outer jacket disposed about the outer surface of the tubular member and a tubular inner jacket disposed within the lumen of the tubular member. The shapeable region of the guide catheter may be manually formed into a desired shape before insertion of the guide catheter into the body. In some embodiments, the guide catheter is sized to be inserted through a nostril of a human patient and used to guide the transnasal insertion of another device (e.g., a guidewire, catheter, etc.

Abstract: A voltage sensing glove assembly includes a glove that is wearable on a user's hand. The glove is comprised of an electrically insulating material to facilitate the user to grasp exposed electrical wires without risk of electrical shock. A plurality of voltage sensors is each coupled to the glove and each of the voltage sensors is in electrical communication with the exposed electrical wires when the user grasps the exposed electrical wires. Respective ones of the voltage sensors are turned on when the voltage sensors senses electrical voltage in any of the exposed electrical wires. An alert unit is coupled to the glove and the alert unit is in electrical communication with each of the voltage sensors. The alert unit emits an alert when any of the voltage sensors is turned on to alert the user that electrical voltage has been sensed in the exposed electrical wires.

Abstract: Systems, devices and methods treat target tissue to provide a therapeutic benefit to the patient. A tissue treatment device comprises a tissue treatment element constructed and arranged to treat target tissue, such as duodenal mucosa and/or submucosal tissue. Patients treated can safely eliminate or reduce their daily insulin intake.

Abstract: A catheter with an electrode assembly has a functional electrode located at a first position on the electrode assembly and a shunting electrode located proximal to the first position. Irrigation fluid carried by the catheter may be electrically coupled with a patient's blood through the shunting electrode. The shunting electrode may be used to reduce noise in an electrocardiogram signal that results from the pump used to supply the irrigation fluid.

Abstract: A modular surgical apparatus is disclosed. Also disclosed is a modular incision apparatus. The modular incision apparatus may be used in a minimally invasive surgery. The modular incision apparatus includes a base having a pair of pivots, a pair of alignment tabs, a proximal opening, and at least one slide guide. The modular incision apparatus includes visual and cleaning access to the blade. The modular incision apparatus is suitable for safely, efficiently, and accurately making small incisions during surgical procedures. The modular incision apparatus provides a means of making small incisions of controlled depth, while reducing the chances of inadvertent exposure of surgical staff to sharp instrument.

Abstract: A tool (16) for the coagulation and dissection of biological tissue including a counter-bearing (35) that has at least one recess (37) open toward the outside and/or one or more hollow chambers (63). The recess (37) or the hollow chamber (63) is configured to provide a force/path elasticity characteristic curve with a plateau-like region II, V, during compression and reexpansion. The path section x in which the elasticity characteristic curve indicates the plateau II, IV preferably is as long as the tissue to be dissected is thick, and is, for example, in the range of 0.2 to 1.5 mm. As a result, the force exerted on the tissue during the cutting operation remains substantially constant in the effective work region.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, a motor, a shaft, a stapling assembly, and an electrical potential shifting device. The body includes a firing switch configured to generate a motor drive signal including at least one of a motor activation signal portion or a motor deactivation signal portion. The motor includes a first power terminal and a second power terminal which define an electrical potential energy differential therebetween. The motor is configured to selectively activate and deactivate in response to the electrical potential energy differential. The first power terminal is coupled to a power supply and the second power terminal is coupled to the electrical potential shifting device. The electrical potential shifting device increases the electrical potential energy differential of the motor in response to detecting the motor activation signal portion and decreases the electrical potential energy of the motor in response to detecting the motor deactivation signal portion.

Abstract: Methods and devices for allowing articulation of an end effector on a surgical instrument are provided. In one embodiment, a surgical device can include a flexible neck portion having an end effector coupled to a distal end thereof. The flexible neck portion is configured to bend to as to allow the end effector to articulate. The flexible neck portion can include a monolithic flexible outer shell defining an inner lumen extending therethrough. At least one flexible divider can be disposed within the inner lumen such that it separates the outer shell into elongate pathways configured to receive articulation members extending through the shaft assembly and the flexible neck and coupled to the end effector to cause articulating movement thereof.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a shaft portion which at least partly houses an axially movable cutting element. A handle receives the shaft portion. A trigger element for the cutting element is movably arranged on the handle. The instrument also includes a coupling mechanism which converts a rotation of the trigger element into an axial movement of the cutting element with the interposition of a pinion. The coupling mechanism is designed such that the rotation of the trigger element produces a rotation of the pinion about the central axis thereof and additionally an axial movement of the central axis.

Abstract: A forceps includes a shaft defining first opposed distal recesses, a drive bar slidably disposed within the shaft and defining second opposed distal recesses, and an end effector assembly including first and second jaw members. Each jaw member defines a proximal flange and a distal jaw body. The proximal flanges each define an aperture and a cam slot. A pivot pin extends through the apertures with ends of the pivot pin extending outwardly from the jaw members to be at least partially disposed within the first recesses and fixedly engaged therewith. A drive pin extends through the cam slots with ends of the drive pin extending outwardly from the jaw members to be at least partially disposed within the second recesses and fixedly engaged therewith such that translation of the drive bar relative to the end effector assembly pivots the jaw members between spaced-apart and approximated positions.

Abstract: A method for a medical procedure is provided and includes obtaining data from sensors disposed in a medical instrument. The sensors include at least one first sensor configured to measure acceleration, at least one second sensor configured to measure rotation, and at least one third sensor configured to measure direction of movement. The method further includes correlating the data from the sensors with time and storing the correlated data and time. A medical system, a method for imaging a medical procedure, and a method of processing sensor measurements are also disclosed.

Abstract: An instrument drive unit for use with a surgical robotic arm includes a body, a first gear, and a driven coupler. The body has a proximal end and a distal end configured to be coupled to a surgical instrument. The first gear is non-rotatably coupled to the proximal end of the body. The driven coupler is disposed at the proximal end of the body and laterally offset from the first gear. The driven coupler is operably coupled to the first gear such that rotation of the driven coupler rotates the first gear to effect rotation of the body about a longitudinal axis defined by the body.

Abstract: Embodiments are directed to various monopolar and bipolar electrosurgical scissor instruments. A monopolar electrosurgical scissor instrument includes one scissor blade that has an electrically conductive tapered edge, where the tapered edge is insufficiently sharp to shear or otherwise mechanically cut tissue. The scissors also include another electrically insulated scissor blade movably mounted to the first scissor blade. The second scissor blade includes a flat contact surface that is aligned with the tapered edge of the first scissor blade. The scissors further include a scissor body that includes a conductor that transfers electrical energy from an energy source to the tapered edge of the first electrically conductive scissor blade to electrically cut interlaying tissue located between the first electrically conductive scissor blade and the second electrically insulated scissor blade.

Abstract: A monitoring method and system for providing visual enhancements during a medical procedure is described. The method includes capturing current visual information of a site during the medical procedure in real time, storing at least a portion of the captured visual information as stored visual information, identifying a feature of interest in at least one of the current visual information and the stored visual information; generating feedback data associated with the feature of interest, and displaying a virtual representation of the feedback data overlaid on the current visual information.

Abstract: Devices and methods for delivering fluid to tissue during ablation therapy are described herein. An exemplary device can include an elongate body having an inner lumen, outlet ports, and an ablation element configured to heat tissue. A flow resistance of the elongate body can increase along a length of the elongate body containing the outlet ports in a proximal to distal direction. This can be accomplished by, for example, varying outlet port size or relative spacing, decreasing a cross-sectional area of the inner lumen through which fluid can flow using a flow diverter or tapered inner lumen sidewalls, or limiting a ratio between a total area of the outlet ports and a cross-sectional area of the inner lumen. Adjusting flow resistance of the elongate body can provide more uniform fluid distribution or a desired non-uniform distribution.

Abstract: A surgical instrument comprising an end effector, which comprises a first jaw and a second jaw transitionable between open and closed configurations. The first jaw comprises a first grasping surface that forms a first electrode configured to deliver radio frequency (RF) energy and the second jaw comprises a second grasping surface that forms a second electrode configured to receive the RF energy. Each jaw comprises grasping features that are configured to cooperate with the opposing grasping features. The surgical instrument further includes a tissue adhering portion disposed on an exterior of the end effector. The end effector is attached to the shaft by an articulation joint comprising a multi-axial range of movement.

Abstract: Various methods, systems, and devices for treating tissue ablation are disclosed. Some embodiments disclosed herein pertain to methods of treating tumors, systems used for irradiating tissue and tumors with electromagnetic radiation, components and devices of that system, and kits for providing systems used for irradiating tissue and tumors with electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the system provides sub-ablative infrared radiation that is absorbed by nanoparticles. In some embodiments, the nanoparticles absorb the radiation converting it into heat energy. In some embodiments, though the infrared radiation itself may be sub-ablative, the heat energy generated by the nanoparticles is sufficient to cause thermal coagulation, hyperthermia, and/or tissue ablation.

Abstract: The coagulation arrangement (10) according to the invention comprises an instrument (11) having a tool (17) comprising coagulating electrodes (22, 23, 27, 28), as well as a dissecting electrode (36). The electrodes are powered by a circuit (44) that comprises a coagulating voltage source (54) and a dissecting voltage source (55), or that can be connected to such sources. The device comprises a dissection actuating switch (60) and a coagulation actuating switch (59). The former is connected to a power switch (58) that—in dissecting mode—connects the current path from the dissecting voltage source (55) to the dissecting electrode (36), before the dissecting voltage source (55) or the HF output voltage source (47) and the coagulating voltage source (54) are actuated. Thus, the user is presented with a reliable means in a simple manner in order to be able to more flexibly perform more complex operations.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a body, an end effector, an articulation section, and a shaft assembly coupling the body with the end effector. The shaft assembly includes a sheath, a first monolithic articulation connector, and a second monolithic articulation connector. The first monolithic articulation connector includes a first distal portion and a first proximal portion. The first distal portion and the first proximal portion consist of a homogenous continuum of material. The first distal portion is configured to flex relative to the first proximal portion. The first distal portion is at least partially housed within the sheath. The second monolithic articulation connector is at least partially housed within the sheath. The first and second monolithic articulation connectors are configured to longitudinally translate in opposing directions relative to the sheath to deflect the articulation section and the end effector relative to the longitudinal axis of the sheath.

Abstract: A tissue resecting device includes an elongated shaft having a central axis, a distal end, and an outer surface. An offset housing is mounted on the distal of the shaft and has a tissue-receiving window. The tissue-receiving window is offset radially outwardly from the outer surface of the shaft, and a moveable electrode is configured to move back and forth across the window to resect tissue which extends into the window. The offset housing improves visibility of the cutting window when viewed from endoscopes and other visualization apparatus.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes a distal portion. A force sensor is operatively mounted on the distal portion. The force sensor includes a wireless package, which wirelessly provides (1) identification information of the surgical instrument and (2) strain data related to the distal portion. A surgical end effector includes a jaw and the distal portion is on a non-contact portion of the jaw. The wireless package includes a surface acoustic wave strain sensor with identification information. The wireless package also includes a small folded antenna electrically coupled to the surface acoustic wave strain sensor with identification information. The identification information includes an identification of a type of surgical instrument and unique identification of the specific surgical instrument in the type of surgical instrument.

Abstract: A device comprising: a a pair of arms; a blade; and a blade extending mechanism including detent positions where the blade is locked into a position related to each of the detent positions. The device is capable of switching between: a configuration where the arms are free to move towards each other, and the blade is locked into a position related to a first one of the detent positions; a configuration where the arms are secured together by a securing mechanism that prevents movement of the arms towards each other; and a configuration where the arms are secured together so that the arms are prevented from moving towards each other, and the blade is locked into a position related to a second one of the detent positions so that the blade is substantially flush with or extends beyond a distal end of the arms.

Abstract: Lysing surgical instruments and related systems and methods. In some embodiments, the instrument may comprise a lysing tip comprising a plurality of beads and at least one lysing member defining at least one lysing segment extending between each pair of adjacent beads or between a tip of the instrument and an adjacent bead. Some embodiments may comprise rearward-facing lysing segments to facilitate retrograde lysing movement through patient tissue.

Abstract: A surgical instrument includes an active electrode coupled to a source of electrosurgical energy. The active electrode includes a tissue-contacting surface on an exterior surface of the instrument such that the tissue-contacting surface of the active electrode may intimately engage tissue. A replacement electrode includes a tissue-contacting surface, and is located in an interior cavity of the instrument. A seal is formed between the active electrode and the interior cavity of the instrument such that the tissue-contacting-surface of the replacement electrode is isolated from contamination exposed to the exterior of the instrument. The active electrode is removable from the instrument to expose the tissue-contacting surface of the replacement electrode, and the replacement electrode is connectable to the source of electrosurgical energy when the active electrode is removed.

Abstract: An electrosurgical apparatus with a retractable blade for use in cold plasma applications, electrosurgical cutting and mechanical cutting is provided. The electrosurgical apparatus employs a tip of the retractable blade as a sharp conductive point to generate a plasma beam or discharge. When the blade is retracted within the electrosurgical apparatus, it is electrically energized while an inert gas flows over it, producing a cold plasma discharge. In the de-energized state, the blade is advanced and used as a traditional, mechanical surgical blade.

Abstract: A method of treating tissue includes extending a distal tip of an electrode of a surgical instrument from a body of the surgical instrument to expose the distal tip by sliding the electrode along a longitudinal axis defined by the body, delivering energy from the distal tip to tissue, and applying suction adjacent the distal end of the body with a suction pipe of the surgical instrument. The distal tip of the electrode may include a collapsible portion. Extending the distal tip of the electrode may include moving the collapsible portion to extend beyond an outer radial dimension of a nose of the surgical instrument.

Abstract: Systems and methods herein are directed to an endoscopic device with a drip flange, including the assembly and use of the endoscopic device. The endoscopic device with a drip flange may be positioned to abut an aperture into an operative cavity and inserted through the aperture. An endoscopic procedure may be performed, during which fluid moves along an outside surface of the elongate shaft, the fluid moving from the distal end toward the proximal end, and where the fluid is directed to a drip flange coupled to the outside surface of the elongate shaft between the distal tip and a proximal end of the elongate shaft.

Abstract: The present application discloses devices that ablate human tissue. The device comprises a catheter with a shaft through which an ablative agent can travel, a liquid reservoir and a heating component, which may comprise a length of coiled tubing contained within a heating element, wherein activation of said heating element causes said coiled tubing to increase from a first temperature to a second temperature and wherein the increase causes a conversion of liquid within the coiled tubing to vapor, a reusable cord connecting the outlet of the reservoir to the inlet of the heating component, and a single use cord connecting a pressure-resistant inlet port of a vapor based ablation device to the outlet of the heating component.

Abstract: Embodiments of medical devices and methods are disclosed. The medical devices typically comprise a flexible elongate member defining a lumen, and a support spine affixed to the distal end and extending proximally therefrom within the elongate member lumen. In some embodiments, the support spine is configured to support at least a portion of the elongate member when the elongate member is bent or curved. Some embodiments include apertures at or near the distal end for enabling fluid communication between the lumen and the outside environment. In some embodiments, the support wire extends proximally from the distal end within a distal portion of the lumen such that a proximal portion of the lumen is substantially unobstructed, thereby reducing turbulence of fluid flowing through the lumen.

Abstract: An effector includes a tubular body having a proximal end and a distal end. The effector includes a plug or closure at the distal end of the tubular body; an active electrode at the distal end of the body; an insulator on the body; and one or more return electrodes on the insulator. The body dissipates heat generated by the one or more return electrodes from the distal end of the body to the proximal end of the body.

Abstract: An end effector assembly for a forceps includes first and second jaw members each having an opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surface. The first jaw member is pivotable relative to the second jaw member between a spaced-apart position and an approximated position for grasping tissue between the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces. The second jaw member includes an electrical cutting element and is translatable relative to the first jaw member between a first position, wherein the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces are aligned with one another, and a second position, wherein the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surfaces are longitudinally offset relative to one another. Upon translation of the second jaw member between the first and second positions, the electrical cutting element is translated at least partially along the opposed electrically-conductive tissue-contacting surface of the first jaw member.